Our Story

Wishes that make a difference

The Children's Wish Foundation is a uniquely Canadian charity that helps Canadian children, families and communities by granting the favourite wish of a child diagnosed with a life-threatening illness. With every wish that we grant, we create moments of joy that ease the pain of a child, give respite to the child's family, and connect healthcare professionals and communities in that burning wish of hope.

We've been granting wishes since 1984. As we approached our 30-year milestone, we granted the 20,000th wish to a child living with a life-threatening illness. Every wish is as unique as the child making it, from finally getting to cuddle with grandparents who live far away to hitting a puck with a favourite hockey player. In the often painful life of a seriously ill child, these wishes have made a tremendous difference.

Our Mission

Making heartfelt wishes come true

The Children’s Wish Foundation of Canada works with communities across the country to provide children with life threatening illnesses the opportunity to realize their most heartfelt wish. By
creating unique, meaningful experiences, Children's Wish enhances quality of life for these courageous children and their families.

Leadership. Leading with vision

Guided by the steady vision of our leadership team, Children’s Wish enters its fourth decade more determined than ever to make a difference in the lives of children, families and communities across Canada.

Richard Lachance Board Member Montreal, QC

Les Gombik Board Member Calgary, AB

Judith Chambers Board Member Winnipeg, MB

Jim Wyatt Board Secretary Saint John, NB

Jan Grude Board Vice-Chair Vancouver, BC

Chris KotsopoulosCEO, Ex-OfficioPickering, ON

Brenda Abrams Board Chair Toronto, ON

Mitch Minken Board Treasurer Saskatoon, SK

Jeanette Wakelin Board Member Charlottetown, PEI

Ian Smith Board Member Ottawa, ON

Gerry Curnew Board Member St. John's, NL

Eric Gagnon Board Member Quebec, QC

Darren Nantes Board Member Halifax, NS

Let's talk results and numbers

Behind the hope and wishes at Children’s Wish Foundation is an organization that works hard to be effective, efficient and transparent.

Measurable impact

Every day of the year we fulfill the fervent wish of three Canadian children living with pain and uncertainty. You may not know it, but one of them might be that child living on your street, or sitting in class next to your own child. For three decades, we've been making a difference in communities across Canada, maybe even right where you live.

Wide-reaching results

We touch the lives of thousands of people each year. You see, every time we grant the wish of a seriously ill child, we also create hope and happiness for the child’s family, healthcare team as well as for every person who cares and worries about that child. One wish, so many smiles.

An Efficient Operation

About 13 per cent of all donations to Children’s Wish Foundation goes towards administrative costs. Our donors and volunteers love knowing that their generosity and efforts go directly to the children and families who need our help.

Annual Reports

Annual Report Microsite 2013- 2014

Annual Report 2011 - 2012

Annual Report 2012- 2013

Annual Report 2013 - 2014

Careers

Be part of the magic

Join an organization that transforms the lives of seriously ill children every day as well as the lives of people around them. If you like the idea of making a difference, of constantly being inspired by the courage of families struggling with a serious illness, and of knowing that what you do puts a smile on the faces of children living with pain and uncertainty, then consider a career with Children’s Wish.

Employment Opportunities

Children’s Wish does not currently have any vacancies. Please consult this page regularly for updates.